Making a Difference: Our Giving Tree Volunteers Give Back

Carol Marsh

Recently, our Giving Tree volunteers gathered for a celebration and meeting. With over 30 individuals volunteering in various capacities for the store, we are grateful for their contributions, although more volunteers are always welcome! During the event, a budget report was presented, revealing that we had $3,000 available to allocate to mission projects supported by our church. Each volunteer received a “menu” of missions and a “blank check” worth $100, allowing them to choose a mission to support.

This unique opportunity allowed our volunteers to truly understand the impact of their work. The dedication and effort put forth by these individuals have played a significant role in the prosperity of our store. The products available at Our Giving Tree come from vendors who actively assist artisans and workers in overcoming challenging life situations, spanning from Denver, Colorado to Kenya in Africa. Moreover, these products are not only ethically sourced but also aesthetically pleasing.

In addition to our collaboration with the Creation Care Ministry, Our Giving Tree has partnered with them to offer beautiful plants for sale. All proceeds from these plants contribute to our church’s efforts to reduce the usage of styrofoam cups and containers, as well as support other projects aimed at nurturing our planet, a responsibility we believe God has entrusted us with.

If you are interested in joining our team of dedicated volunteers at Our Giving Tree, we provide comprehensive information and training to accommodate various skill levels. No matter your capabilities, there is always something you can contribute! We particularly require assistance on Sunday mornings and Wednesday afternoons/evenings. To explore whether this volunteering opportunity aligns with your interests and availability, please reach out to our bookstore managers, Carol Marsh or Barbara Cavanah. You can contact them at (863) 732-7333 or bookstore@firstumc.org.